Reaffirming Sarawak's decision to co-host the 2027 SEA Games

I have reaffirmed Sarawak’s decision to co-host the 2027 Southeast Asia (SEA) Games regardless of the decision to be made by Sabah’s Government on the matter. Despite the recent news on Sabah’s position on this matter, we will leave the matter at the discretion of the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) and discussions are still ongoing. But we have been informed by KBS and the Federal government that we (Sarawak) will be the co-host. On the participation of other states, we will discuss this later.

This matter was brought up by our media friends at the sidelines of 55th MATTA Fair 2024 held at Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MiTEC) of Jalan Dutamas, Kuala Lumpur recently. Again I have informed them that Sarawak has agreed to co-host and regarding whether or not Sabah will do the same, that will be determined in the meetings between all of us with KBS and Federal government. 

We are keen to participate as a co-host in the SEA Games because it will boost our state's position on the global sporting map in which apart from hosting premier regional games, Sarawak will also be hosting other international sporting events such as the Women’s Under 19 T20 World Cup, where there will be 10 ICC matches to be held in January 2025.

Hosting such prestigious events will bring good numbers of athletes, officials, and fans from around the world which will also present an excellent opportunity to showcase Sarawak’s unique culture, breathtaking landscapes, and unmatched hospitality. This will boost our sports tourism attractions and to attract the world sports fraternity to come to our shores.